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Paul Stebbins Obituary
On Aug. 25, 1979, according to him, "God gave the ladies of the world a gift." One special woman was lucky enough to unwrap that gift and on June 26, 2004, he married his best friend and soul mate, of almost eight years, Suzie. He even forgave her for being a New York Yankees fan.
Besides his wife, "PJ" found the greatest joys in the Boston Red Sox, being the best uncle, bargain shopping, Phil Collins, Republicans, funny movies, the Florida Gators and pushing his father's buttons. (And maybe the occasional hate mail that showed up after he wrote an editorial.)
He was a member of St. Barbara Parish (St. Anthony of Padua Church), Exeter.
He graduated from Bloomsburg University with a degree in elementary education. Paul also served as treasurer for the Young Republicans.
With heavy hearts, he leaves behind, in addition to his wife, the former Suzie Scavone, his father, Paul Stebbins Sr.; siblings, Lea Black, Tonya Stebbins, Mandi Stebbins, Krissy Blank, Katie Cartwright and Jacob Cartwright; in-laws, Mark, Rosemary and Becky Scavone; grandmother, Irene Stebbins; aunts, uncles, cousins, several very much loved nieces and nephews; and his crazy dog, Yogi.
Relatives and friends are invited to a memorial service from 3 to 5 p.m. Sunday at Gubbiotti Funeral home, 1030 Wyoming Ave., Exeter.
PJ would ask that you honor his memory by donning your favorite Red Sox ball cap and/or voting for a Republican!
His more practical family members, however, ask that you honor him by smiling through the pain, doting upon your children, tolerating someone difficult, making amends, being a better friend, and most importantly — turning to someone you love, right now, and telling them so. These are the qualities that he possessed and that the world needs more of.
Many thanks to his doctors, Charles Manganiello, Mark Bernardi, Vijayaramanr Pugazhenai and Susan Brozena, and to all of the nurses at the Geisinger heart hospital.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Big Brothers/Big Sisters of the Bridge Foundation, 35 E. Northampton St., Wilkes-Barre, PA 18701.
To send the family expressions of sympathy or online condolences, please visit www.gubbiottifh.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Paul Stebbins
Christine Liso
March 30, 2012
My deepest sympathy goes out to all of you during this difficult time. May The Lord comfort you.
Blythe and Jessica Evans
March 21, 2012
sleep well old pal...now we wont have anyone to fill us in about pro sports at the Republican dinners..we miss you
Danielle P.
March 18, 2012
Never met P.J. and never liked an obituary before this one. Great tribute to what sounds like a great human being.
March 18, 2012
Like so many others, I never had the pleasure of meeting "PJ," however, this was one of the most sad and touching obit's I have ever read. Your family is/ will be in my thoughts and prayers, and, as a young republican, I will be sure to say a special prayer when I cast my ballot on election day. ;)God bless you all during this difficult time. May PJ rest in peace.
March 17, 2012
I didn't know Paul from Adam. However, I must say that was probably the best obituary I have ever read, and based on that, I wish I would have met him. (I am a former resident of N.E. PA, now living in Harrisburg, and I check the obituaries just about every day, as I have many friends and relatives in the valley). Sounds like Paul was full of life and loved to make people laugh. I loved the Red Sox/Yankees comparison (I, like Suzie, am a Yankee fan). May God bless and keep the chins of your whole family up during your difficult time.
Jennifer Roman
March 15, 2012
I am sorry I do not know you but I am sending my condolences to your family. I live in Florida and check the obituaries on a regular basis and would like to say that this is one of the nicest write-ups I have ever seen in here. I am sure Paul would be proud. May he rest in peace and may your family find comfort in knowing God has taken a special angel to watch over you from above. Again, I am very sorry for your loss and God Bless!!!
nancy
March 14, 2012
I know mandi and i am so sorry to hear this is so sad...my prayer for the family
Margaret Evans
March 13, 2012
Our most sincere condolences to the entire Stebbins Family. The world has truely lost a great soul.
chrissi
March 12, 2012
I met PJ a couple of times and know his family very well he was a very funny and just full of life person. His obituary was so touching and so true. My heart goes out to Susie, Mandi and all PJ's family he was a great person and may he RIP he touched alot of peoples lives as i can tell by there comments and will always be remembered and missed. RIP PJ xoxo
Kathryn
March 12, 2012
I volunteered with PJ at the Republican Victory Center almost two years ago. We didn't interact too much, yet in the small exchanges we had I was left with the impression that PJ loved life and making others happy. My deepest sympathies for your loss.
robyn caiazzo
March 12, 2012
I happened upon this obituary today and i wanted to say it was the best tribute I have ever read. It brought tears to my eyes...May God guide you through this terrible time and hold tight to your wonderful memories....
shila and rob jones
March 12, 2012
My husband has known p.j. for quite somtetime, and i had the pleasure of meeting p.j. and his loving wife, Susie last year..their love tor each other was so obvious. Susie, he will always be with you. He was such a kind, soul with a wicked sense of humour. I'm sure hes having a blast busting chops and talking red sox up there! Prayers and our love to Susie and the family! I miss his facebook comments!!
Nicole
March 11, 2012
PJ and I worked together at Boscov's MANY years ago. We hung out a bunch of times, having fun and being goofy kids. Sadly, we lost touch after my move to the Pocono's. PJ was a wonderful friend, I was always able to talk to him about anything. He was a smart guy too ... he warned me not to marry my ex-husband!
To Suzie and all of PJ's family, I am so terribly sorry for your loss. My prayers are with you all.
Jessica
March 11, 2012
I am so glad that I got the chance to meet you and become friends with you PJ (it would have been nice to meet Suzie too!) I'm going to miss the way you always made fun of me and my life :) Things aren't going to be the same without you.
March 11, 2012
Although I never met Paul, after reading his incredible obituary/tribute, I certainly wish I had. He must have been a wonderful person to have left such a wonderful mark in this world. My thoughts and prayers are with his family. May your heart smile everytime you think of him. Thank you for sharing his spirit with us! Susan
Coniglio Children
March 11, 2012
"I think Uncle PJ was really skinny but his big heart made him look fat" ~ Nickolaus Aiden
"I am going to rename my boyfriends to PJ" ~ Armani RoseMary
"I miss Uncle PJ and we shouldn't hold our tears in because it makes things worser" ~ Jacob Maddox
Laura Roegner
March 10, 2012
Dear P.J.,
You always had a giving way - a big love for things that you were passionate about! Always the peacemaker and so laid back with being the only boy amongst all the girls! We love you and will miss you. The world has been made a better place with your brief time on it. love you....Aunt Laura and family.
Dear Family,
You are always in my prayers snd I miss all of you. Follow your dreams - be true to yourselves in true P.J. style! Love, Aunt Laura
Michael Touey
March 10, 2012
I meet Paul at Bloomsburg University; when this guy walked into class it felt like the whole room was just given a big bear hug. No one was left untouched by his big heart.
Take care my friend.
Mike
D Atherton
March 10, 2012
sorry for your loss I never meet you but heard wonderful stuff about you from my wife. All of you are in our prayers
March 10, 2012
Death is a tragedy that can't be erased,but a memory is something that can't be replaced may you rest in peace PJ!
Karen Thiede
March 10, 2012
I don't know where to start with the heartbreak ur whole family must be feeling! PJ definitely left an impact on this world & I just wish others would follow suite! I wish I knew why God needed to take this incredible young man, but I'm sure he is setting God straight with his wittiness! May God Bless him & everyone who is hurting from such tragedy!
March 10, 2012
I, too, did not know PJ. I wish I had. I have never seen a better tribute to someone. To see all the people who did not know him need to respond shows what an amazing person he must have been and what an amazing family he has. My deepest sympathies to your family. You are in my thoughts and prayers. I wish I had known him, not only because it is hard to find fellow Republicans around here, but also because I am positive he was a great spirit to be around. Hang on to your memories of this wonderful man, there aren't too many of them out there!!! You were blessed to have him. God bless you and your family.
Erin
March 10, 2012
I cried when I read this, I wish I knew you & I was your friend,,,,,A wonderful way of telling about a life that was so loved,,,,I am so sorry to anyone who had the privilege to know and love PJ,,I will wear my Red Sox hat to the parade Sat in honor of you <3 sent with love.
kim boylan
March 10, 2012
I am not sure if I have had the pleasure to meet such a great guy, my condolences to you SUZIE and the family ... may your memories keep him in your heart. I feel he will be watching over you forever. Kim Boylan
Jennifer
March 9, 2012
What an amazing man he sounded like. I never met him but wished I have. He will watch over you all from above now. God bless.
Rosemary Scavone
March 9, 2012
Dear PJ, Thank you for making our daughter so happy, you are truly the love of her life. I rarely see two people who got along so well and enjoyed each other's company so much. Thank you for being the person you are. A man of your convictions who really could stand by them. We were so proud of you. We will miss you so much and will always love you.
Megan Nixon
March 9, 2012
Paul Sr,
I am sooo sorry to hear of your loss. May you feel the love of all that mourn for your son.
amy halecki
March 9, 2012
rip PJ, you will be sadly missed by all that were lucky enough to know you. My heart goes out to your wife, mandi and the rest of your family.
tina rutkowski
March 9, 2012
this may be the most wonderful tribute i have ever read.. a memorable man. never met him but sure do wish I had...
BrookLyn
March 9, 2012
uncle p.j. i think that you were the best uncle i ever had and i miss you alot i just wish that you were alive.
Austin
March 9, 2012
i miss you ilove you and i miss that redsox hat and i wish you werw alive love austin
John Hall
March 9, 2012
Paul Stebbins, you were one of the good ones. Rest In Peace, brother.
Tami & Raymond Cannell
March 9, 2012
My deepest sympathy for your loss. PJ was one truly amazing person. Our hearts are saddened but also filled with joy to have known him. He will be missed but never forgotten.
March 9, 2012
I didn't know him, but I wish I did. So very sorry.
Daphne
March 9, 2012
What a beautiful obituary. A fine way to celebrate someones life. It brought tears to my eyes and I didnt even know PJ but I think I wish I had. I know the heartache of loosing someone so young. My prayers are with the family in this time of need.
Dorothy Baranovsky
March 9, 2012
I did not have the great fortune to ever meet PJ but I do know his wife Suzie and I cannot even begin to express how much my heart hurts for all of you. This was an absolutely amazing tribute to him and made me know him at least a little bit. Be strong for each other and I will keep you all in my prayers
March 9, 2012
I am so very sorry for the loss of your loved one. I also did not know him at all, but his obit was written very well and telling the whole world what an awesome man he really was. This is a man's obit that will be talked about for a long time, making his memory go on and on! God bless all of his family during this very difficult time! May you all find peace with the great memories you have with him!
Mike R
March 9, 2012
PJ, You werent just a friend, you were a best friend. You were always there to pick me up when i had a bad day. Always had a great time when we hung out. You helped mould me into the man i am today. In the short 8 years that i knew you, You became a confidant, and just someone i looked up to. Nothing bothered you.
I am so thankful you are not suffering anymore. I'll do my damndest to look out for Suzie. Keep an eye on us, You are now our guardian angel.
I gonna Miss you dearly my friend. More than words can describe. Until we meet again.
Melissa Canfield
March 9, 2012
I'm really sorry Miranda if you ever need anything plz know that I'm here for you.
Melissa Canfield
March 9, 2012
Miranda and family I'm so sorry for your loss. May he rest in peace.
Heather (Jones) Revello
March 9, 2012
I went to high school with PJ and worked with him at the woodlands years ago, but seem like yesterday. He was the sweetest funniest guy. My prayers are with his family and especially his wife Suzie. He was such a kind and genuine person. Always the prankster. Always make you laugh til your stomach hurt. He will be missed by everyone who ever knew him.
Juliann
March 9, 2012
What an amazing obituary. My deepest condolences to his family. What the heart has once treasured, will never be forgotten ♥
March 9, 2012
I didn't know Paul but read this obituary this morning. I have never read one that made me chuckle and think "what a guy..wish I knew him". I emailed my family and friends and told them to read it...this is what an obituary should be..a celebration and reflection of a person's life. You served a great tribute to Paul. Thoughts and prayers are with your family..
March 9, 2012
Didn't know him but saw a post on Facebook and it tagged his obituary. He sounds like he was a great guy! I love his obituary. He must have been loved by all! I got choked up reading it!
March 9, 2012
sounds like someone i wish i could have known. my sympathy to his family.
Crissann Novis
March 9, 2012
This incredible obituary touched me deeply. My condolences to the family and many thanks for sharing PJ's life!
March 9, 2012
makes me wish I had met this guy. God bless your family.
miranda stebbins
March 9, 2012
i love you pj i love the laughs u gave me the silly texts messages the playtime with the kids i love and miss u to death..life will not be the same without my brother by our sides...xoxo
Terry and Mary Branscom
March 9, 2012
This is a beautiful and touching obituary. We all should listen to what was said. Our prayers are with all of the family.
Brandy Wheaton
March 9, 2012
I want to send my deepest condolences, the world has lost a great guy! Words can't express how my heart breaks for you Suzie, and your family. Thoughts and prayers xoxo
Steve Coslett
March 9, 2012
I cant say that i knew PJ, however this obit sums up the making of a great person with a wonderful family and after reading this my thoughts and prayers are with your family.
BARBARA KING
March 9, 2012
A DIRECT AND TO THE POINT TRIBUTE ,SOMEONE TRULY UNDERSTOOD THIS MAN P.J. GOOD JOB ON THE OBIT MAY HIS MEMORY BE ETERNAL GOD BLESS HIS FAMILY
michael wylie
March 9, 2012
To my dearest family and friends, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.
Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."
It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family and friends, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man.
God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.
When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.
I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.
There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.
If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.
So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.
And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.
P.J. i'll miss you..my deepest sympathies to his family..
isaiah stebbins
March 9, 2012
i love and miss you uncle pj
Adrienne Addae-Afoakwa (Petrochko)
March 9, 2012
Perfect and touching obituary, so sorry to hear of PJ's passing. We graduated high school together but kept in touch through facebook. He really was a great guy and so funny. We always joked around about our completely different political views and I know he'd appreciate a republican vote from me this election like the obit says. My thoughts are with his family, and his wife and dog that he adored.
March 9, 2012
I didn't know Paul but just wanted to comment on a remarkably different yet beautiful obituary.
March 9, 2012
I did not know PJ...but I have to say this is the best obit I have ever read. You really get a feel for what a wonderful and life loving person he was. My deepest sympathies.
Kara Knight
March 9, 2012
I am very sorry for the loss of one of the best men I ever knew, he was so kind, funny, and just an all around amazing man who will be missed by all,my prayers are with his wife Suzie,and all his family, he made an impact on all the children he coached on the Exeter,even if only a short time due to illness, P.J. I will miss you and never forget you
Charity Marianelli
March 9, 2012
Suzie I an soo very sorry for your loss. I know he is watching with a heavy heart as he watches you in pain. He is always with you. My prayers are with you in hopes of healing your pain. Much love and blessings.
Lynda Savinski
March 9, 2012
I'm so sorry for your loss of PJ. I didn't know him, but from the touching obituary, I feel that we would have been friends, with the exception of voting for a Republican. That would have been the source of our friendly arguements. Peace to all your souls.
melissa mangan
March 9, 2012
i am soo sorry to hear about his loss, prayers r with his family and friends...
Kathy Wylie
March 9, 2012
My family, including myself are completely shaken and distraught. He was part of our family. An added son to my parents, and another brother to us. On behalf of his extended, surrogate family we offer our condolences, and prayers. We all know the stray bit of sunshine that blinds us while we are driving, is just PJ making his presence known. I love you kid. Always.
Cherie Stone
March 9, 2012
Krissy and Family,
My thoughts and prayers are with you all. May god bless you all during this difficult time.
Suzie Stebbins
March 9, 2012
PJ, you were the love of my life. I will never understand why God only gave me 11 short years with you. You made a difference in the lives of everyone who had the joy of knowing you, and I will make sure your legacy lives on. And don't think that with you being up there you will be able to give the Red Sox any help!! ;) I love you, honey. Yogi and I miss you terribly. The only relief I have is knowing you are no longer suffering and scared. Watch over me, honey. Until we meet again... <3
Chandra Ruyak
March 9, 2012
I am so so sorry to see and hear this. PJ was a funny and awesome person who loved life and his wife even more. My condolences...
March 9, 2012
I did not know Paul, but when I read his obituary this morning, I felt like I knew him. He seemed like such a wonderful man. I know he will be missed greatly. God bless his family and friends in this time of need.
Lisa Mcdonald
March 9, 2012
I graduated with PJ. My thoughts and prayers are being sent to the family. He was a great person. He will be sadly missed <3
Lee Herman
March 9, 2012
Perfect send off for one of the funniest guys I knew.
Sharon Burrows
March 9, 2012
My deepest sympathies to the family. I never met PJ but Lea is my friend and I am hurting for her. Remember the good times and it seems like there were many.
shannon kovacs
March 9, 2012
shannon kovacs and family we love you .you were family and always will be. you are gone but not forgotten.
warren & doris mckeel
March 9, 2012
Paul Sr. and family we are so very sorry for your loss, PJ was always the life of aparty and well be missed by everyone. Its very hard to lose someone but we have to take it day by day. God bless your whole family in this sad time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Kim Hirt
March 9, 2012
My heart is full of sadness as I read of PJ's passing. I worked with PJ at children's service center. I loved and appreciated his sense of humor, his positive spirit and energy. He always had something good to say about everyone. He was great with the children! He loved helping people and teaching the children. His presence was missed when he left the program. I, too am a red sox fan! We had great conversations about the team! I grew up in New England. My life has been blessed knowing the special spirit of PJ. Thank you Lord, for sharing PJ with us before you took him back home. Your sister in Christ, Kim Hirt
Amy Grabinski
March 9, 2012
I graduated with P.J and I am so sorry to read about your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
virginia michaud
March 9, 2012
krissy and family i am very sorry to hear about pj passing you all our in my thoughts in prayers in this difficult time please know i love you all
Jennifer Kegerreis
March 9, 2012
Lea and Tonya and family,
So sorry for your loss. Thoughts and prayers for all of you!
Jennifer
bonniejo & lita vanderlick
March 9, 2012
krissy and family , i am very sorry about pj. if you and your family need any thing leave me know . i can help
March 9, 2012
I didn't know Paul, but I am so sorry for your loss....I just want you to know that the obituary in the paper touched me...it was the nicest tribute to a person that you could do....I felt like I knew him just from reading it, and I can tell he would be a friend of mine if our paths crossed...again so sorry for your loss.. Marquene K, Plymouth, PA
Jean Littzi Rucco
March 9, 2012
Dear Suzi and family,
I am devastated to hear about PJ. No words can take away your pain. You are a kind, strong girl and I know you will get through this. I am praying for you.
Carin Ives
March 9, 2012
Krissy and family, I'm very sorry to hear of the loss of your brother. Thoughts and prayers for your family at this difficult time.
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